The Bromeliad Society of Australia (BSA) is set to host an engaging meeting this month, featuring a presentation focused on Bromeliad Care from one of its expert members.
The event, which includes a plant sale open to the public, will take place at the Federation Pavilion, Castle Hill Showground, Castle Hill, on Saturday, September 13th. The public sales will commence at 10 am, with the main meeting scheduled to begin at 12 noon.
BSA member Mark Belot, who has a particular specialization in the larger bromeliad genera such as Alcantarea and Vriesea, will be the guest speaker. Belot’s journey into the world of bromeliads began after growing up on a property dominated by his late father’s beloved camellias, azaleas, and rhododendrons. While his initial horticultural passion leaned towards Bonsai, where he amassed a significant collection, his focus shifted dramatically after a neighbour shared some bromeliad plants, a moment that “hooked” him on the genus.
Currently, Belot employs an unconventional approach to cultivation, foregoing a traditional shade house. The majority of his collection is grown in full sun, with only the most delicate and precious species reserved for his deck. He organizes his deck space meticulously, allocating the sunnier end to Neoregelias and the shadier side to Vrieseas. His garden boasts a diverse range of plants, including striking Neos, though he counts the large hybrid variegated Alcantarea varieties as his personal favourites.
Attendees can expect a highly practical session, as Belot plans to bring several coloured and flowering Alcantarea bromeliads. He will provide a live demonstration on the essential techniques of removing offsets (pups and grass pups) from the mother Alcantarea plant, a crucial step in propagation. Furthermore, he will offer advice on salvaging and ensuring the survival of neglected bromeliads. Adding a unique dimension to his presentation, Belot will also showcase some of the intergeneric crosses—hybrids of Alcantarea and Vriesea—that he has successfully bred from seed.
For those seeking more information, Ian Hook, President of the BSA, can be contacted on mobile at 0408 202 269 or via email at ianhook1@bigpond.com. The latest updates are also available on the official society website, www.bromeliad.org.au.
